hot off our press

Something we are finding increasingly in demand lately has been the Timber Screen.

We thought we would put together a few images of what has been trending and and to give some ideas for your own home, new build or renovation.

One of our favourites is this statement entrance screen in Simbithi. It the tall narrow slats perfectly complete this modern look. Its simplicity is its strength.

Or this entrance screen with simple vertical fins. The fins give a mid century modern feel but is completely modern. Is it needed? No. Does it have a function ? No . Its just a sugar dusting on a contemporary Zimbali home.

Remember those old school louvres? here we used timber instead of glass for stunning effect en-masse but also has the added function of controlling light.

And again here in another home. These are actually mechanised and tilt up. We included a short video with a quick demo.

Another statement timber screen for another glamorous Zimbali home. Need we say more.

And finally these timber screens make an impressive entrance for this Hawaan Forest home in Umhlanga. These heavy mega sized screens stand 3 metres tall and are completely motorised, as far as we know its a South African First!

And thats our mini round up of timber screens. We hope you are inspired to update your space or add something that will add spectacular detail and dimension to your home.

Phew I canot believe its almost a month since we rang in a new year! And we are only now doing our first post. Shocking. But to my defence- Ive been on school holiday. Okay and probably a whole lot disorganised- having two munchkins throw out my day so completely and have my day organised around them has totally thrown me out of balance.

I’m in of the process of reading Steven Covey’s “7 Habits of highly effective People” plus a whole lot inspirationals from Brian Tracy and Brendan Burchard on getting the most out of life and your day , titles such as “ what successful people know/ habits/ tricks “. So many good tips. And yet here we are at the end of Jan 2015- the starter gun for 2015 has already looong gone off and Im still standing at the start line in the smoke and dust of those that have already kick-started their 2015. And yet I am intensely excited about what has lead us to where we now and where we going.

Remember Aesop's Fable about the hare and the tortoise? Slow and steady wins the race. And so my 2015 is more tortoise than hare.

And so what is 2015 looking like for us? No resolutions here. I've never really been a believer. What I am a believer in is habit and what I'm increasingly learning is that study is hugely important- to keep improving on what we know- no one will ever be to old to learn and to learn new habits and new skills. That's where attitude comes in. To keep moving forward - even setbacks move us forward.But the importance is to keep moving forward. To build a consistency of moving forward. To build a consistency of learning and improving.

Excellence, learning and creating good habits from these IS compounding interest in your own life and business.

To begin with we’ve started the year getting physically organised-or rather picking up and improving on existing habits of being organised and improving on them.

Its not the annual overhaul of your home/ workplace or garage, its a consistent habit. It is the overhaul/ springclean but its also not in that you cannot be organised in and amongst a heap of hot mess.

So with that note; here’s to learning and always moving forward wherever and however that personally means to you.

PERGOLASWhilst sitting with a client running through various ideas for their latest project we put to them the idea of a timber pergola. Said client asked, “what does it do?”.

What does it do? Nothing.

Well not in the sense that a staircase for example takes you up or down a level or a timber deck is for lounging on. A pergola is none of those. True it does provide some shelter from rain or sun. Or just provides an interesting link up between spaces or structures.

So why a pergola? It adds character and a new definition to any space. And sometimes it just looks cool and for some reason is cool to be in or under. Or maybe its a throwback to being a kid again and building forts on rainy days: take any lounge/bedroom and make a shelter in the same room. Sit in that shelter... then.. it becomes an entirely new magical spot for reading, dreaming or a having a picnic.

“ So its psychological then “ said our client. Yup that about sums it up.

Whatever the reason or just because, we love them. Maybe you have a space outdoors you feel is lacking something- maybe consider a timber pergola in that space? There are so many styles and interpretations to be found; build it with ntingu for rustic feel or for a bigger budget combine timber and steel with interesting timber post details.

And don’t feel that your garden may be too small for a pergola- it can definately make your space visually pop and be a separate interesting space to be in.Below are are some of our own timber pergolas that we have built for clients and some some are from the www.If you love these ideas scroll through ourpergola gallery or find our board on Pinterest.

Winner of the 2013 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show from Cube2.

Seamless integration of materials and landscaping.We especially love the re-purposed timber and couldn't imagine a better place to dine under.

A few weeks ago we spotted a chevron wall project that we thought would work well in our spare room AND help use up some spare timber we had. We wanted something that would add interest to the room, add texture to the wall, and to just be totally different to anything else we had seen.

Saturdays often become our DIY days so one came up and we tackled this on. It took a few hours so you may need to allocate the same amount of time.

Before...

See what I mean- WaaAAy too much Wall.

Now...

We had to change things around a bit ( but the bed still needed a headboard AND the room needed something unique)

We thought it would be a good idea to share how we made this wall.Its an easy project for any keen DIYer.

TOOLSMiter SawScrew GunHammer DrillScrewsLevel Set SquarePencilTape measureTimber :30 x 30 spacerFramework : 20mm x 40mm ( we used meranti but anything will work).Length to our design and space. Measure your space out first and cut accordingly.Chevrons : wide boards- we used 90mm- but its up to you, and about 12mm to 20mm thick; again its your own preference. Don't be afraid to mix it up. Our chevrons are different thicknesses; some are aged, some are balau and some iroko. This was the look we wanted, its up to you, there are no rules! As for your length this will depend on your design/ plan.

PREPARATION- Its a good idea to draw out, measure and plan first what you are wanting to achieve. We measured out and decided that three "panels" would work well and fit in with the scale that we wanted. Once you have worked out your "spread". Put together your framework.

We decided to use a framework system as it would be quicker and easier rather than fasten the chevrons to a wall. We worked on the floor in our garage where the chevrons could be measured, cut and spaced directly onto the frame; which was laid out on the floor. They were then screwed on directly onto the framework. And then the framework hung n the wall.

Step 1:Measure out your space, draw out a plan, and lay you framework out accordingly. Fix your frame together.Step 2: Now for the chevron stripes. Using your wide boards and starting mid way through your frame, start measuring out and cut at a 45 degree angle where the chevrons meet / turn / or zig zag. Both ends will need to be cut at 45 and at the required length ( to fit your frame). Fasten as you go. Note that the zig zags will "meet" or turn on the supports of your frame. Refer to the pics to see what we mean.Step 3: Use your 30mm X 30mm spacer to get even spaces between your chevron stripes and help speed up the process. Fasten as you go along as per step two above. Your stripes will get shorter as you move out to the edges.Step 4:Once done, you can sand. If you choose a more finished look, you can stain or paint at this point.Step 5:Hang up your chevron panel. Using the hammer drill, wall plugs,level and pencil.

I decided to string up some lights, but I think fairy lights would be good or even a rope light would look good too.

If you have taken on this project or used this as inspiration please post pics on our facebook wall We would love to see!

Who doesnt love a treehouse? no matter how old you are there is something magical about sitting in a structure in a tree. They fascinate the littlest of people to the biggest and oldest of people.

We are planning a treehouse in our yard and Im not sure if its for us or our boys!Watch this space for updates and" how to's" on this fun project. For now though we wanted to share a few of the most intriguing treehouses on the planet. These have made it onto our list not just because of their character and uniqueness but mostly in how they interact with their environments and people.Click on the images to find their original sources.

REDWOODS TREEHOUSE, AUCKLAND, NZRedwoods Treehouse was build as a Social Media Marketing Campaign for the Yellow Pages. This stunning treehouse recieved the attention of the world and pooled in local businesses and talent to see what could be done with a single resource.

In truth its a monument to teamwork. A modern day Tower of Babel but with a happy ending.It is now a restaurant so it continues to bring people together.We love it and If we are ever in the Auckland neighborhood- this is one must see!

FINCA BELLAVISTA, COSTA RICA

In the Jungles of Costa Rica, is THIS treehouse community. We chose this as one of our favourites because not only do visitors get to sleep in luxury in a jungle canopy but they get to zipline from tree to tree! If you are not afraid of heights this “playground” is dream come true. We love that its the realisation of a dream of building a self sufficient community in the jungle. Click on the images to see more of this special community.

THE TREE HOUSE HOTEL, SWEDEN

A Scandinavian hotel - each “room” is a unique treehouse. Each with jaw dropping surreal designs- we almost didnt belive the pictures were real. This secluded hotel is set amongst a serene forest where guests are sure to be rejuvinated and connected with their forest surrounds.

GREENWICH VILLAGE TREEHOUSE, NEW YORK, NY

Just because we love an underdog story!

This treehouse in New York City recieved landmark status after a neighbour complained about the “suspicious structure”. We think it was awarded landmark status just because it shouts a childlike optimism. Even in a a sophisticated concrete jungle we are still fascinated by this burst of quirky-ness, this invitation to relive our childhood.

Its a reminder to never grow up and loose our sense of fun. To never stop dreaming. Its a reminder that there is still magic in this world long after we adults have stopped believing in such things.

Resources:PHOTO CREDITS ON ORIGINAL SOURCES BELOWTree Hotel, Sweden : www.treehotel.se OR click on the imagesFinca Bellavista: Photo credits on Website : Fincabellavista.com OR click on the imagesRedwoods Treehouse : website : redwoodstreehouse.co.nz OR click on the imageshttp://gawker.com/5674411/a-treehouse-survives-in-manhattan

So simple but the truest things are usually the simplest things. This famous quote is by a master of simplicity, Charles Eames. ( 1907- 1978).

Eames and his wife, Ray Eames ( 1912- 1988), have left a legacy of design that is still so much in demand today. Some 50 - 70 years later their minimalist sleek designs would be perfectly in place on the cover of any modern lifestyle magazine and touted as “contemporary”. Just have a look at the below

La Chaise " organic and sculptural" deigned in 1948 for a competition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

The Iconic Lounge Chair Model number 670 and Ottoman Model No.671 designed for Herman Miller in 1956.

So the above quote rings true even in nature where the most intricate detail makes the design. Imagine the intricacy of the inner workings of the ear or an eyeball- these not only “ make” the design they “are” the design.In the case of the Eames’ , where everything is so stripped down every component is purposeful and adds not only to the overall use but to the intended feel of the piece. Every part plays its role; every detail makes up the whole. Any single missing "detail" and it just wouldn't be the same.

Upon researching for this blog post and reading through a few articles and websites dedicated to them; one thing is clear that they had a desire to positively affect and impact the lives of people and their environments- the fact that their designs are still so much in demand AND replicated speaks that they were easily able to accomplish this.

And not only were they able to accomplish this in furniture design; they easily crossed over into many creative fields; starting into architecture moving to furniture design and venturing into film as well.

Have a look at Eames House; completed in 1949 ( !) its use of the elements and materials make for its openness and sleek minimalism.Again, this home would be perfectly in place in any contemporary lifestyle magazine.

One last note; they were into toy design too.We love the idea that they gave back and inspired design in children.That they were (and still are) able to open up and unlock a gift and passion for creativity. Who knows whom this may inspire to venture into design and even bigger projects. The snowball effect of their vision is clear on the video below. Have a look at the “House of Cards”, which inspired this project.

What more can be said about these design heroes? Their awards? Their accomplishments? Their pedigree? All of these are numerous, and can be listed. But we think the most important accomplishment is not just the awards and recognition but that their designs still inspire millions almost 70 years on. No fad but a true legacy.

A Legacy should keep giving back; and what they have left does just that. It inspires innovation and creativity and it adds beauty to our homes even today.

How would this legacy translate to our company? The answer would be to strive to add value in detail; that these details make the difference in the product. To give our customers beauty and simplicity to enhance their homes and lifestyles.

So you come back from the beach; if you haven't walked home you've driven home. It is hot. There is sand caked everywhere especially on the slathered- on-now- slimy- sunscreen. You are salty sticky all at once. Been there? Not cool.Perhaps, you just want to be refreshed and what better way than in a zen outdoor space under the sun or stars listening to the sounds of the outdoors.Whether indulgent or practical, we love The Outdoor Shower.

We have installed a few for our clients over the years, and each of them very different; some with a view of the sea or a valley below, some as a quirky statement on a timber deck; some have been practical with a built in surfboard rack.Such as this one here

This particular Zimbali home featured on Top Billing, incorporates the shower with a downstairs balau deck and pergola- the whole space has such character while at the same time is a very practical zone. The family can be easily organised when coming back from the surf. Sunscreen and sticky sand grains banished. Surfboards can be cleaned and packed back on their rack. While researching this article we gathered some inspiration from the web, they are intimate closed spaces or open statement pieces. Some of the more luxurious ones are extensions of the bathroom as in the first image below. Find more of our favourites are on our Pinterest board here.

This concept would probably be my ultimate in bathroom luxury. This door opens out to the outdoor shower. Note that it is also has access from the garden. Its fresh and functional.

See this on House Beautiful. com. or click on the image for the exact page.

We love the timber cladding and functional shelf in this out door shower. Unfortunately the source is no longer online, none the less we love it.

This space combines different textures; the slate, the pebbles , the planting and timber decking all contrast with bold colour. It is both a refreshing and contemporary take on the outdoor shower.

Timber, timber and more timber- we couldn't resist adding this one!

Check out our Pinterest board for more inspiration as well as the sources for these pictures.

With summer approaching it's time again to ( at least in our home) to start looking at our outdoor spaces again. And how we can LIVE in them. Every year we dream about adding a FIREPIT! There’s something about sitting around a fire being mesmerised by its flickering flame, the sounds of summer nightlife chattering in the background….

Someday soon we will do our own,so watch this space for our redo. In the meanwhile we’ve found some inspiring spaces around the www that we would would love to hang out in. Also please find our pinterest board for some more inspiration if this is the project you are choosing to do this summer.

Some ideas to consider for your own firepit:

Try to have a designated space for this- not in and amongst your garden furniture/ braai equipment or pool loungers. We love the idea of a hidden nook in the garden or a step down into a firepit area. Much more of an intimate ambience and character never mind practical.

Seating arrangements: things can get pretty heated up close! so create enough distance whilst maintaining proximity to other people.

Timber supply, be careful what timber you burn. Some timber may have chemicals and are most certainly not suitable for burning!

There really are no rules as every home is different , just love your home and let it keep inspiring you!

Are you planning any firepit projects this summer or have you done one of your own? Please share your ideas with us here email us (info@timbertrends.co.za ) or sahare on our facebook page.

Click on the images for their original sources OR find them and more on our Pinterest board for Firepits and fireplaces.

Always evolving and trying to never stay static. Mostly trying to be true to our slogan: setting the trend.

We felt it was time to change up of our website. We want to be increasingly image driven and super easy for our customers to navigate and use. To be more interactive and share more of who we are.

On that note, after browsing our site please comment and let us know if you didn't navigate easily or something wasn't working. Anything you feel would be helpful to building our goal of being interactive and an easily navigable website. In short- if you had to think too hard to find what you are looking for we haven't achieved our goal on this site. So let us know :)

Other than our website makeover there are a few things to look forward to in Timbertrends.- The launch of our maintenance side. Not only have we been increasingly involved with maintenance, we are adding value to our customers by giving back up service and advice with our maintenance. Contact us for a consult or quotation.- Inspiration and more inspiration. Dazzling design and more.- A series on our favourite projects over the years; so you can have more information on some of the spectacular homes featured on our website.